Moving to Warsaw Guide | The British School Warsaw

Q: What currency is used in Warsaw?

While Poland joined the European Union in 2004, it doesn&rsquo;t use the Euro. Instead, the country continues to have its own national currency, the złoty, which dates back to the 14th century.

MOVING TO WARSAW

Welcome to Nord Anglia’s guide to the Polish capital, a captivating historic and cultural centre that’s home to a thriving expat community – and our outstanding British-international school, TBS Warsaw. On this page, you’ll find all the information you need about moving to – and living in – Warsaw, covering everything from visas and housing to fun activities for families.

YOUR GUIDE TO LIVING IN WARSAW

Warsaw is an artistic, cultural, financial, and business hub that is ranked one of Europe’s most attractive and liveable cities.

Perched on the banks of the Vistula River, the city is characterised by magnificent old-world architecture and quaint town squares, with a culture shaped by a fascinating yet turbulent history. Warsaw’s continued evolution into an economic powerhouse, meanwhile, is evidenced by the gleaming skyscrapers that punctuate the skyline.

Relocating to Warsaw, your family will join a vibrant expat community who come to the city for the excellent quality of life, great job opportunities, and the sense of belonging. You’ll also find more than 20,000 acres of parks and woodland to explore – more greenery than any other European city – and plenty of activities for children.

BEFORE YOU MOVE TO WARSAW

There are lots of things to consider before you relocate to Warsaw. We’ve covered some of the most important below.

Look into visas and residency permits

One of the first things you’ll need to do before you move to Warsaw is obtain residency status. There are different residence permits available, each with its own requirements and limitations.

Look into visas and residency permits

Citizens of EU and/or EEA member states, as well those from a select group of countries (which includes the US, Canada, and Australia), can enter Poland without a visa. However, to stay for more than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a Temporary Residence Permit.

Temporary Residence Permit

A Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) is the most common type of residency permit for expats in Poland. It allows you to stay in the country for a period of up to three years – and it can be renewed. To be eligible for a TRP, you’ll need to meet certain requirements, such as having a job offer or a family member in Poland.

Permanent Residence Permit

A Permanent Residence Permit (PRP) allows you to stay in Poland indefinitely. To be eligible for a PRP, you’ll need to have lived in Poland on a TRP for at least five years or be a spouse or child of a Polish citizen or PRP holder.

European Union (EU) Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is a work permit that allows highly skilled non-EU citizens to work and live in Poland. To be eligible for an EU Blue Card, you’ll need to have a university degree, and a job offer in Poland that meets certain criteria.

Visa for Entrepreneurs

If you want to start your own business in Poland, you may be eligible for a Visa for Entrepreneurs. This is a temporary visa that allows you to live and work in Poland for up to two years, with the possibility of applying for a TRP or PRP.

You can find more information on the Ministry of Interior and Administration Republic of Poland website.

Investigate healthcare and insurance

Poland has a dual healthcare system: a public system and a parallel network of private providers. This offers families living in Warsaw choice and flexibility, with many expats choosing to take out specialist private insurance.

Investigate healthcare and insurance

Healthcare in Warsaw is delivered through a mix of public and private systems. Both are accessible to expats, depending on your legal and insurance status.

The public healthcare system

The public system, Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia (NFZ), is funded by a 9% mandatory contribution deducted from your income. It covers nearly all essential medical services at public hospitals and clinics. Expats who are employed, self-employed, or registered students may automatically qualify for NFZ. Others can join voluntarily.

The private system

The private system offers faster access, shorter wait times, English-language services, and more modern facilities. It includes providers such as LuxMed, Medicover, and Enel-Med, which operate clinics and hospitals in the city. Foreigners can pay out-of-pocket or subscribe to monthly or annual private plans, tailored for both general care and specialist consultations.

Moving to Warsaw Guide | The British School Warsaw - Copy of Feature Cards Pattern

Find a place to live in Warsaw

The city’s diverse districts offer a variety of housing options for families moving to Warsaw. Each has its own distinct charm, from family-friendly residential neighbourhoods like Mokotów to bustling central areas like Śródmieście.

Find a place to live in Warsaw

When looking for a place to live in Warsaw, you’ll discover a city that has undergone rapid development in recent decades – and yet still retains its cultural identity and old-world charm.

The Old Town is Warsaw’s historic centre, from which the city spreads out around the Vistula River, across 18 districts. Each district is unique, and you’re sure to find an area or suburb that suits your needs and budget. It’s important, of course, to consider the distance to work and school, as well as nearby amenities and transport links.

TBS Warsaw’s campus locations

TBS Warsaw has two world-class campuses, which are located just over three miles apart. The school’s Early Years campus (for ages 2.5 to 6 years old) is in the Upper Mokotów district, while the Primary and Secondary campus (for children aged 7 to 18) is located slightly to the south, on the edge of Mokotów, in the Sadyba district.

Mokotów, on the west bank of the Vistula River, is one of the most desirable suburbs for families relocating to Warsaw. The area has exceptional public transport links, as well as ease-of-access to great restaurants, parks, and libraries. Housing in Mokotów ranges from large, refurbished pre-war villas to Soviet-era and modern apartment blocks.

Other districts to consider

Wilanów is one of the most exclusive suburbs in Warsaw, and a popular choice for expats, especially those from the diplomatic community. The area boasts exceptional family-friendly credentials thanks to its many parks and amenities. Housing in Wilanów typically consists of upscale developments.

Żoliborz is a charming neighbourhood that’s popular with locals and expats. One of Warsaw’s greenest areas, Żoliborz is home to a wide choice of restaurants and cafés, plus a fantastic weekend food market. Plac Wilsona, one of Warsaw’s most important transport hubs, also sits in Żoliborz, ensuring easy commutes. Accommodation is mainly characterful pre-war houses.

Śródmieście is a central district bordered by Żoliborz to the north, Wola to the west, Ochota to the south-west, and Mokotów to the south. The cultural and political centre of Warsaw, Śródmieście houses museums, galleries and parliamentary buildings. It also has excellent transport links. Housing consists mostly of apartments and tends to be more expensive than in other districts.

LIVING IN WARSAW

Our guide to living in Warsaw covers culture, things to do as a family, and more, ensuring you have the information you need to settle into the city.

Culture, history and traditions

The Polish capital seamlessly combines a storied past with a vibrant present. Moving to Warsaw, your family will discover a unique history, long-held traditions, and a distinct identity that shapes everyday life in the city.

Culture, history and traditions

A tumultuous history

Warsaw’s history is a tale of resilience. The city was almost entirely destroyed during World War II; however, it has been meticulously rebuilt, with the Old Town earning UNESCO World Heritage status. This provides families moving to Warsaw with much to discover and explore.

The Royal Castle: A symbol of Poland’s royal past is now an excellent museum.
Old Town Square: Known for its colourful façades and lively atmosphere.
Warsaw Uprising Museum: A must-visit to understand the city’s heroic struggle during World War II.

A vibrant cultural centre

Warsaw is also a cultural and creative hub, offering much to see and do for art and music lovers.

Frederyk Chopin Museum: Discover Chopin's legacy and attend performances of his most revered pieces.
Polin Museum of the History of Polish Jews: An award-winning museum that tells the thousand-year history of Jewish life in Poland.
National Museum: Housing an extensive collection of art, including Polish works and ancient artifacts.

Polish traditions and festivals

Poland has a rich heritage, and many traditions are deeply ingrained in the lives of locals. The country's culture is evident at the myriad of celebrations throughout the year. These include the festival of Juwenalia, which takes place in many university cities, including Warsaw. Events, like the Carnaval Sztukmistrzów, showcase the city’s artistic talents, while the Wianki celebration brings people together to mark Midsummer Night.

Getting around

Thanks to a well-established transport system, getting around using Warsaw’s metro and tram lines is quick, cheap, and easy. Many expats do have a car for day and weekend trips outside the city, though.

Getting around

Warsaw has fantastic transport links. This includes an international airport located just 10km south of the city centre and several large railway stations. The city’s extensive bus and tram networks, which serve both central areas and the suburbs, are also excellent, making it easy to get around without a car.

Public transport

Warsaw’s integrated public transport system includes metros, trams, buses, and suburban trains, connecting all 18 districts. Living in Warsaw, you can use multiple forms of transport on one ticket, within a set time. We recommend the jakdojade.pl app to navigate the network.

Although Warsaw’s metro has just two lines, there are ambitious expansion plans to more than double its size. The city’s 27-line tram system, meanwhile, is a convenient way to get around, and is especially good for sightseeing.

Taxis

Taxis in Warsaw are readily available and relatively inexpensive, particularly when compared to other European cities. Ride-hailing apps, including Uber and Bolt, also operate in the city.

Driving

Driving in Warsaw can be tricky! The city also ranks among Europe’s worst for traffic congestion. This means that, while many families living in Warsaw have a car for exploring beyond the city, they rely on public transport for the daily commute.

Cycling

Cycling in Warsaw is growing in popularity, as the city develops its bike-friendly infrastructure. Warsaw operates a public bicycle scheme, Veturilo, which has stations across all 18 districts.

Walking

Walking is a pleasant way to explore Warsaw, especially in pedestrian-friendly areas like the historic Old Town and Krakowskie Przedmieście. The Mariensztat area, down the hill from Old Town, is a particularly excellent place to explore on foot, packed with European charm.

Things to do with your family

The city’s love of sports, expansive parks, burgeoning restaurant scene, and exciting experiences for children mean there’s plenty for families to do in Warsaw.

Things to do

Expat life in Warsaw is friendly, exciting, and charming, and there really is so much to see and do in the city.

Some of the top activities for children

The Copernicus Science Centre is packed with interactive displays that your children will love.
The Warsaw Zoo houses a wide range of animals, offering educational encounters and new discoveries.
The rope course at Bielany Park provides adrenaline-fuelled fun for the whole family.
Warsaw’s tallest building, the Palace of Culture and Science, offers fantastic city views and hosts museums and year-round performances.
Unforgettable adventures await at Smart Kids Planet, located in the Norblin Factory.
Junior Car Park offers car-loving children a chance to experience life behind the wheel.

Restaurants

Living in Warsaw, your family will discover a burgeoning restaurant scene. You can enjoy a variety of cuisines and dining experiences, from Michelin star restaurants to casual cafés. Poznańska Street is one of the liveliest areas of the central Śródmieście district, with some excellent places to eat.

Outdoor activities

Local and expat families love to spend time outside, particularly in the warmer months. Łazienki Park, Saxon Garden, and Skaryszewski Park offer peaceful retreats for walking, running, or enjoying a picnic. Riverside boulevards stretch from Siekierkowski Bridge through the heart of the city. Water enthusiasts can enjoy the Vistula’s beaches or take a free ferry across the river during the summer.

Sports fans should also check out the impressive PGE Narodowy Stadium, home to major events and Poland’s national football team.

Theme parks

Warsaw is home to several water, amusement, and theme parks, which are a great way to spend a day out.

Wodny Park, for instance, is one of the most visited water parks in the city. Energylandia, meanwhile, is one of the biggest amusement parks in Poland. It’s famous for its extreme rides, colourful shows, and family-friendly attractions.

NURTURING YOUR CHILD’S POTENTIAL

At The British School Warsaw, your child will join the next generation of creative and resilient global citizens. Your family will receive a warm welcome into a vibrant international community, too!

Learning at TBS Warsaw, your child will experience an inclusive, rigorous, and high-quality British education, delivered by outstanding teachers in a diverse and caring environment. This approach, which balances academic excellence with wellbeing, inspires students to achieve fantastic results. It also sees them mature and flourish as individuals, with the character and values they need for lifelong success.

ADMISSIONS AT TBS WARSAW

AN EDUCATION THAT INSPIRES BRILLIANCE

TBS Warsaw’s all-encompassing educational approach brings out the best in every child, creating pathways to bright global futures.

Curriculum

TBS Warsaw’s students learn using the world’s most respected British and international curricula, including the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. With outstanding results and a breadth of skills, your child will earn a place at one of the world’s top universities.

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Facilities

TBS Warsaw’s two campuses – Early Years and Primary and Secondary sites – provide the purpose-built spaces students need to thrive. From a dedicated IB Academy to high-tech science labs and even an urban gym, our school in Warsaw has everything your child needs to thrive.

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Teachers

Outstanding teachers make outstanding schools – and TBS Warsaw’s educators are truly exceptional. Caring, passionate, and highly qualified, they’ll unlock your child’s potential and inspire them to achieve remarkable success.

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School calendar

The academic year at TBS Warsaw runs from August until June, and is divided into three terms. Students can enrol at any time, and we welcome applications from parents throughout the year.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the cost of living in Warsaw?

Compared to other European capitals, Warsaw is a very affordable place for expats.

Key expenses like food and transport cost less, offering an excellent standard of living without the relative expense. You can get great deals on homes and apartments, too, even in the city centre.

Is it easy to connect with other families living in Warsaw?

Yes, it really is! Meeting people and making friends in Warsaw is straightforward, thanks to the city’s welcoming international community.

Warsaw Global and Meetup Warsaw Social, for example, are two well-established groups that regularly organise meetups, helping both newcomers and long-term residents connect and explore the city together.

Do I need to speak Polish to live in Warsaw?

English is widely spoken in Warsaw. In fact, a recent survey found that just over one-third of Poles can speak English to some degree. The influx of international companies and a growing expat community also mean that you can often get by in English.

Of course, learning some basic Polish – or committing to regular language classes in the city – will help you integrate into life in Warsaw more quickly. It’ll also help you connect with locals.

What is the weather like in Warsaw?

Warsaw’s continental climate is characterised by cold, snowy winters and mild summers. In winter, temperatures regularly drop below freezing, while January is typically the coldest month.

The summers more than make up for it, though. With temperatures regularly reaching 30°C, you’ll have lots of opportunities to enjoy the city’s parks and many outdoor activities.

What currency is used in Warsaw?

While Poland joined the European Union in 2004, it doesn’t use the Euro. Instead, the country continues to have its own national currency, the złoty, which dates back to the 14th century.